Pep Guardiola has admitted he enjoys watching Arsenal, saying their approach offers valuable lessons, even as scrutiny grows around their playing style.
Arsenal remain firmly in the hunt for both the Premier League title and the UEFA Champions League, holding a six-point lead at the top and preparing for a semi-final clash with Atletico Madrid.
Despite their strong position, criticism has followed Mikel Arteta’s side. A significant portion of their goals—37% of 62 league strikes—have come from set-pieces, while just two have arrived from open play across their last five matches.
Sunday’s showdown with Manchester City could prove decisive. Avoiding defeat would edge Arsenal closer to a long-awaited league triumph.
Guardiola, however, remains deeply respectful:
“Yes. People are so demanding. From the media, supporters, everyone. I enjoy watching them. I learn a lot in many things.
“What people want is to win and we will fight. An aspect that is really, really important that we cannot fight against is [Arsenal going] 22 years without winning the Premier League. They have something that makes them unique. I know that.
“I knew that feeling when we arrived here. For a long time we didn’t win the Premier League. Manuel [Pellegrini] and [Roberto] Mancini did it but for our era I would say, I know how you feel that first win.
“That is something that we cannot play against, that is why we have to focus on the way we have to play.”
Momentum shifted slightly after Arsenal’s surprise loss to Bournemouth, while City responded with a strong win over Chelsea. According to Opta, Arsenal’s title probability dropped from 97% to 87%, with City rising to 13%.
City may also carry a mental edge, having defeated Arsenal in last month’s Carabao Cup final.
Still, Guardiola remains measured:
“It is good. We are ready. A month ago because we dropped points in moments I thought we would not be up. We saw the calendar and said ‘ok, we play Arsenal at home and for a chance’.
“It is six points. It is not a short distance but we have a chance to do it. That is the situation we are in. It depends on our behaviour and everything will be said on Sunday. Our fans have sold out. Everything is perfect to play a game.
“Of course, we respect them so much and the quality they have. I have no doubts about that, but it’s about how we approach tactically and mentally. That is all I am concerned about.”
